German president expresses European concern over South China Sea tensions
7 reported
German President Frank-Walter Steinmeier stated in the Philippines on Tuesday that Europe is worried over tensions in the disputed South China Sea, warning that a major flare-up could endanger freedom of navigation as occurred in the Strait of Hormuz. Speaking in a joint appearance with Philippine President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. in Manila during a state visit, Steinmeier referenced the blockade of the Strait of Hormuz resulting from the Iran war and said European leaders are concerned about continuing territorial confrontations in the South China Sea, particularly between the Philippines and China. Steinmeier did not blame any specific country for the tensions, but Germany has previously said China’s actions in the disputed waters violate the rights of coastal states and threaten freedom of navigation. Steinmeier pledged continued German support to the Philippine coast guard, which has been involved in altercations with Chinese forces. Marcos thanked Germany for publicly supporting Philippine efforts to uphold the rule of law in the South China Sea, including by calling on all parties to abide by the 2016 Arbitral Award, which invalidated China’s expansive claims in the region.
What’s reported
German President Frank-Walter Steinmeier said Europe is worried over tensions in the disputed South China Sea.
He spoke in Manila during a state visit alongside Philippine President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.
Steinmeier referenced the blockade of the Strait of Hormuz as an example of how freedom of navigation could be endangered.
He did not blame any country for the tensions.
Germany has previously said China’s actions in the South China Sea violate the rights of coastal states and threaten freedom of navigation.
Steinmeier pledged continued German support to the Philippine coast guard.
Marcos thanked Germany for supporting Philippine efforts to uphold the 2016 Arbitral Award, which invalidated China’s claims.
Key figures
Frank-Walter Steinmeier, German President
Ferdinand Marcos Jr., Philippine President
Annalena Baerbock, former German Foreign Minister (mentioned in context of 2024 visit)
Sources: abcnews.com
